Space Traveler Reveals Mental Health Struggle Following Deluge of Backlash Post-Spaceflight

A pioneering space traveler has spoken candidly about her struggle with mental health after facing a massive wave of online abuse in the aftermath of a historic all-female space mission.

The 34-year-old activist – recognized as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the 11-minute suborbital flight in April, which also featured well-known figures.

The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who challenged its value and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the experience, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” she recounted in a social media post, describing a supportive conversation from a mission companion in the aftermath of the journey.

She described the subsequent media coverage and social media frenzy as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“For a full week, I was bedridden and couldn't leave my Texas location,” she wrote. “Weeks after, I was forced to terminate a call, my voice choked by tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

The researcher, who has dedicated her work to women's health research and operated research during the mission, said every professional achievement – including her scientific research and extensive preparation to the historic significance of her background – was overshadowed under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is widely recognized for her tireless campaigning championing the cause of survivors of assault.

Her own goal of reaching space was deferred after surviving a rape during her time as a student, leading to a long campaign for accountability.

The Fog Begins to Lift

In the time since achieving her goal, she noted the “fog of grief has started to lift”, and she thanked the followers whose support helped save her. “You all saved me,” she wrote.

She noted that amid the criticism, important benefits had resulted from the experience, including spotlight on her women's health research and platforms for her activism.

Flight Details

The fully automated spacecraft lifted off from its launch site in April, carrying the historic roster on a 11-minute journey that crossed the edge of space.

The diverse crew also comprised leaders in multiple disciplines.

The venture behind the flight is a commercial aerospace company launched by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.